28 Colorful Perennials for Shady Gardens

Shaded parts of the garden can feel like a bit of a mystery, can’t they? Those cool, shadowy spots under trees or along the side of the house often seem forgotten. But here’s the good news: shade doesn’t mean you’re stuck with a bland patch of earth. In fact, some of the most beautiful perennials actually prefer these low-light conditions. It’s just about choosing the right plants and flowers that thrive without the full force of the sun. In this guide, I’ll share my top picks for perennials that love shady gardens.

Best Types of Perennials That Thrive in Shady Gardens

Shade-Loving Perennials: The Basics

Shade-tolerant perennials naturally thrive under the canopy of trees or near buildings where direct sunlight is limited (less than six hours of sunlight per day). They tend to tolerate cooler, moister conditions but still showcase richly colored foliage, delicate blooms, or unique textures. These plants typically fall into categories such as partial shade, where they receive a few hours of the morning or late afternoon sun, and full shade, where they thrive with little to no direct sunlight at all.

For those new to perennial gardening, see our in-depth guide to the various types of perennial flowers to grow at home.

1. Hosta

Green and white striped Hosta leaves

Hostas are a staple of many shaded gardens. With their wide, lush leaves in shades of green, blue, or gold, they fill space beautifully. Varieties like ‘Sum and Substance’ and ‘Patriot’ can turn a dim corner into a leafy retreat.

  • Growing Zones: 3-9
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Colors: White, Lavender
  • Sunlight: Partial to Full Shade
  • Height/Spread: 1-3 ft tall, 2-4 ft wide

2) Astilbe

Pink Astilbe flowers in bloom

Astilbes offer vibrant color and creative structure to your shady garden spots. Their tall, feathery plumes are available in pink, red, or white, bringing life to damp, dim corners. ‘Fanal’ and ‘Bridal Veil’ are favorites for their color and hardiness.

  • Growing Zones: 4-9
  • Flowering Season: Late Spring to Summer
  • Colors: Pink, Red, White
  • Sunlight: Partial Shade to Full Shade
  • Height/Spread: 1-4 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide
  • Guide: How to Grow Astilbe

3) Bleeding Heart (Dicentra)

Bleeding Heart

With heart-shaped blooms that dangle like jewels, Bleeding Hearts are the romantic poets of the shade garden. Varieties like ‘Spectabilis’ and ‘Alba’ offer a brief yet graceful presence in spring. They quietly fade away once the heat hits, resting until the next spring.

  • Growing Zones: 3-9
  • Flowering Season: Spring to Early Summer
  • Colors: Pink, Red, White
  • Sunlight: Partial to Full Shade
  • Height/Spread: 2-3 ft tall, 1-3 ft wide

4) Lungwort (Pulmonaria)

Purple Lungwort Flowers

Lungwort isn’t winning any beauty contests for its name, but its speckled foliage and pink-to-blue flowers are a treat. ‘Mrs. Moon’ and ‘Trevi Fountain’ are popular choices. They thrive in moist shade and love a cool breeze.

  • Growing Zones: 3-8
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Colors: Pink, Blue, White
  • Sunlight: Partial to Full Shade
  • Height/Spread: 1-1.5 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide

5) Coral Bells (Heuchera)

Pink Coral Bells (Heuchera spp.)

Coral Bells bring color even when they’re not in bloom, thanks to their stunning foliage in purples, greens, and bronzes. ‘Palace Purple’ and ‘Caramel’ are great choices, and their petite flowers add a delicate touch to any shaded garden bed.

  • Growing Zones: 4-9
  • Flowering Season: Late Spring to Summer
  • Colors: Pink, Red, White
  • Sunlight: Partial Shade
  • Height/Spread: 1-2 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide

6) Brunnera (Brunnera macrophylla)

Blue Brunnera (Brunnera macrophylla)

Brunnera’s tiny blue flowers look like forget-me-nots, but their broad, silver-flecked leaves steal the show. ‘Jack Frost’ is a standout variety. Perfect for shady corners, they’ll shine like a new dime on a summer evening.

  • Growing Zones: 3-8
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Colors: Blue
  • Sunlight: Partial Shade
  • Height/Spread: 1-1.5 ft tall, 1-1.5 ft wide

7) Lenten Rose (Helleborus)

Soft pink Lenten Rose

The Lenten Rose is the winter warrior of perennials, blooming early when most plants are still snoozing. With varieties like ‘Double Ellen’ and ‘Ivory Prince,’ you get weeks of blooms, even when your garden’s still wearing a coat of frost.

  • Growing Zones: 4-9
  • Flowering Season: Late Winter to Spring
  • Colors: White, Pink, Purple, Green
  • Sunlight: Partial to Full Shade
  • Height/Spread: 1-2 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide

8) Japanese Forest Grass (Hakonechloa)

Hakonechloa

For texture and movement, Japanese Forest Grass is a lovely shade-friendly perennial. It sways gently in the breeze, offering a golden glow in shady spots. ‘Aureola’ and ‘All Gold’ are favorites for adding softness to the garden’s edges.

  • Growing Zones: 5-9
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Colors: Yellow, Green
  • Sunlight: Partial Shade
  • Height/Spread: 1-1.5 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide

9) Solomon’s Seal (Polygonatum)

Solomon's Seal (Polygonatum) in bloom

With arching stems and little white bells, Solomon’s Seal is the fairy tale plant of shaded woodlands. ‘Variegatum’ offers a charming variegation that lights up dark patches like a natural spotlight.

  • Growing Zones: 3-9
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Colors: White
  • Sunlight: Partial to Full Shade
  • Height/Spread: 1-3 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide

10) Foamflower (Tiarella)

Tiarella or foamflower in bloom

Foamflower gives you cute, frothy blooms and leaves with bold patterns. ‘Sugar and Spice’ and ‘Iron Butterfly’ are popular for their striking foliage. They’re perfect for a woodland edge or as ground cover.

  • Growing Zones: 4-9
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Colors: White, Pink
  • Sunlight: Partial to Full Shade
  • Height/Spread: 1 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide

11) Toad Lily (Tricyrtis)

Star-shaped purple Toad Lily

Toad Lilies are the unexpected show-offs of the fall garden, with orchid-like flowers that bloom just when everything else is slowing down. Try ‘Sinonome’ for a late-season surprise. They thrive in the cool, shaded corners that most plants avoid.

  • Growing Zones: 4-9
  • Flowering Season: Late Summer to Fall
  • Colors: Purple, White, Pink
  • Sunlight: Partial to Full Shade
  • Height/Spread: 2-3 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide

12) Goat’s Beard (Aruncus)

Lime green Goat's Beard

If you’re after drama in the shade, Goat’s Beard delivers tall, feathery lime-green plumes. ‘Kneiffii’ and ‘Horatio’ are standouts for their height and elegance. They’re also incredibly easy to grow.

  • Growing Zones: 3-7
  • Flowering Season: Early Summer
  • Colors: White
  • Sunlight: Partial to Full Shade
  • Height/Spread: 4-6 ft tall, 3-4 ft wide

13) Bugleweed (Ajuga)

Purple Ajuga flowers in bloom

Ajuga is a low-growing carpet of foliage and blooms that hugs the ground, making it a go-to for shaded spots. ‘Chocolate Chip’ and ‘Black Scallop’ add rich tones and bursts of blue flower spikes to your garden floor.

  • Growing Zones: 3-9
  • Flowering Season: Spring to Early Summer
  • Colors: Blue, Purple
  • Sunlight: Partial to Full Shade
  • Height/Spread: 0.5-1 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide

14) Virginia Bluebells (Mertensia virginica)

Blue Virginia Bluebells (Mertensia virginica)

Virginia Bluebells are the early risers of spring, with blue trumpet-shaped flowers that seem to appear overnight. They love dappled shade and disappear by summer, leaving behind a spot for later bloomers.

  • Growing Zones: 3-8
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Colors: Blue, Pink
  • Sunlight: Partial Shade
  • Height/Spread: 1-2 ft tall, 1-1.5 ft wide

15) Lady’s Mantle (Alchemilla mollis)

Yellow Lady's Mantle

With leaves that catch raindrops like little cups and soft, yellow blooms, Lady’s Mantle is a brilliant shade-tolerant perennial. ‘Thriller’ is a well-loved variety that thrives in shady nooks, offering texture and color.

  • Growing Zones: 3-8
  • Flowering Season: Late Spring to Early Summer
  • Colors: Yellow-Green
  • Sunlight: Partial Shade
  • Height/Spread: 1-2 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide

16) False Spirea (Astilboides tabularis)

Small pink Spirea flowers

False Spirea offers grand leaves and sparkling white flower clusters. The massive foliage of ‘Astilboides’ provides a wild woodland feel in your garden, while the blooms add a delicate touch. It’s perfect for moist, shady spots.

  • Growing Zones: 3-8
  • Flowering Season: Early Summer
  • Colors: White
  • Sunlight: Partial to Full Shade
  • Height/Spread: 3-4 ft tall, 3-4 ft wide

17) Columbine (Aquilegia)

Bright whte Columbine flowers (Aquilegia)

Columbines are shade-loving perennials that showcase delicate, bell-shaped flowers. Varieties like ‘McKana Giants’ bring shades of purple, pink, and yellow to lightly shaded spots. Timeless, ornate, and beautiful.

  • Growing Zones: 3-9
  • Flowering Season: Spring to Early Summer
  • Colors: Blue, Pink, Yellow, White
  • Sunlight: Partial Shade
  • Height/Spread: 1-3 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide

18) Ferns

Lush green fern leaves

Ferns are the ultimate shade garden staple. From the elegant Maidenhair to the colorful Japanese Painted Fern, they offer texture and a lush feel. They might not flower, but their rich green fronds more than make up for it.

  • Growing Zones: 3-9 (depending on variety)
  • Flowering Season: Non-flowering
  • Colors: Green, Silver (foliage)
  • Sunlight: Partial to Full Shade
  • Height/Spread: 1-3 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide

19) Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea)

A cluster of Foxglove flowers (Digitalis purpurea)

Foxgloves are biennials that often behave like perennials, thanks to their reseeding. With tall spikes of tubular flowers, they’re irresistible to pollinators. ‘Excelsior’ and ‘Camelot’ are great options thanks to their range of colors.

  • Growing Zones: 4-9
  • Flowering Season: Late Spring to Summer
  • Colors: Pink, Purple, White, Yellow
  • Sunlight: Partial Shade
  • Height/Spread: 3-5 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide

20) Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia)

Yellow Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia)

Creeping Jenny is the ground cover that never says quit. ‘Aurea’ adds golden leaves to the garden floor, brightening up even the darkest patches. Just keep an eye on it, as it can spread enthusiastically.

  • Growing Zones: 3-9
  • Flowering Season: Late Spring to Early Summer
  • Colors: Yellow
  • Sunlight: Partial to Full Shade
  • Height/Spread: 0.5-1 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide

21) Corydalis

Blue corydalis (Corydalis flexuosa)

Corydalis is a dainty little plant with blue or yellow flowers and soft, ferny foliage. ‘Blue Panda’ and ‘Lutea’ are favorites for shady spots that need a pop of soft color. They’re great in damp, cool areas where other plants might not thrive.

  • Growing Zones: 5-8
  • Flowering Season: Spring to Summer
  • Colors: Blue, Yellow
  • Sunlight: Partial to Full Shade
  • Height/Spread: 1-1.5 ft tall, 1-1.5 ft wide

22) Jacob’s Ladder (Polemonium caeruleum)

Mauve Jacob's Ladder flowers (Polemonium reptans)

Jacob’s Ladder is a shade-lover with lovely blue or white flowers and fern-like foliage. ‘Brise d’Anjou’ is especially prized for its variegated leaves. The plant’s name comes from the way its leaves climb like steps.

  • Growing Zones: 3-8
  • Flowering Season: Spring to Early Summer
  • Colors: Blue, White
  • Sunlight: Partial Shade
  • Height/Spread: 1-2 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide

23) Japanese Anemone (Anemone hupehensis)

Bright pink Japanese Anemone flowers

Japanese Anemones bring graceful, late-season blooms to the shade. With flowers like ‘September Charm’ and ‘Honorine Jobert,’ you get long-lasting beauty that holds up well into fall. They’re the quiet closer of the season.

  • Growing Zones: 4-8
  • Flowering Season: Late Summer to Fall
  • Colors: Pink, White
  • Sunlight: Partial Shade
  • Height/Spread: 2-4 ft tall, 2-3 ft wide

24) Celandine Poppy (Stylophorum diphyllum)

Yellow Lesser Celandine flowers

The bright yellow blooms of Celandine Poppy bring vibrant color to shady spots. It’s happy in moist, woodland areas and will self-seed where it’s comfortable. A great native option for many gardens.

  • Growing Zones: 4-9
  • Flowering Season: Spring to Early Summer
  • Colors: Yellow
  • Sunlight: Partial to Full Shade
  • Height/Spread: 1-2 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide

25) Yellow Archangel (Lamium galeobdolon)

Lamium galeobdolon

Yellow Archangel spreads happily in shade, with silvery leaves and yellow flowers. ‘Herman’s Pride’ is a popular choice that brightens up shaded ground cover. Just give it room to roam—it loves to travel.

  • Growing Zones: 4-8
  • Flowering Season: Spring to Early Summer
  • Colors: Yellow
  • Sunlight: Partial to Full Shade
  • Height/Spread: 0.5-1 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide

26) Sweet Woodruff (Galium odoratum)

White Sweet Woodruff Flowers

Sweet Woodruff is perfect for shady ground cover, with star-shaped leaves and small white flowers. It’s fragrant, too—often used in potpourri. It thrives under trees, where it forms a soft green carpet.

  • Growing Zones: 4-8
  • Flowering Season: Late Spring to Early Summer
  • Colors: White
  • Sunlight: Partial to Full Shade
  • Height/Spread: 0.5-1 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide

27) Barrenwort (Epimedium)

Pink and white Barrenwort (Epimedium spp.)

Barrenwort is tough as nails despite its delicate appearance. ‘Sulphureum’ and ‘Rubrum’ offer small flowers and heart-shaped leaves. It’s perfect for dry shade where other plants typically struggle.

  • Growing Zones: 5-9
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Colors: Yellow, Pink, Red
  • Sunlight: Partial to Full Shade
  • Height/Spread: 1-1.5 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide

28) Elephant Ears (Bergenia)

Pink Bergenia (Bergenia cordifolia)

Bergenia, often called Elephant Ears for its large, glossy leaves, adds bold texture to shady spots. Varieties like ‘Bressingham Ruby’ bring stunning pink blooms in spring. In fall, the leaves turn a lovely bronze, keeping your garden interesting year-round.

  • Growing Zones: 3-8
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Colors: Pink, White
  • Sunlight: Partial Shade
  • Height/Spread: 1-2 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide

Resources and Further Reading

Want to learn more about perennial flowers? Here are some of my favorite resources:

Books:

  • Essential Perennials” by Ruth Rogers Clausen and Thomas Christopher – A comprehensive guide to over 2,700 perennials, this book is perfect for anyone looking to expand their knowledge about different varieties that thrive in shaded garden spots.
  • The Well-Tended Perennial Garden” by Tracy DiSabato-Aust – Focused on planting, pruning, and maintaining perennials, this is a must-have for those who want to understand how to care for their gardens season after season, especially in shady gardens.
  • The Flower Gardener’s Bible” by Lewis and Nancy Hill – Offers detailed advice on how to create a beautiful flower garden that includes shade-loving perennials, annuals, and garden design tips. Great for beginners.
  • The Encyclopedia of Perennials” by The American Horticultural Society – This is an excellent reference book for plant identification, care, and placement. It covers a wide range of perennials with detailed care instructions .
  • Color in Your Garden” by Penelope Hobhouse – Known for its insights into perennial planting designs and color schemes, this book is ideal for gardeners who want to add an artistic touch to their gardens .

Online Resources:

  • National Gardening Association (NGA) – The NGA offers practical advice for growing and caring for perennial flowers that thrive in the shade, with tips for planting and maintenance.

Forums and Communities

Getting advice from fellow gardeners can be incredibly useful. Websites like GardenWeb and The National Gardening Association have forums where people share their experiences and tips for growing perennials.

YouTube Channels

For visual learners, channels such as Garden Answer offer practical video tutorials. They cover everything from planting techniques to seasonal care tips for shade-tolerant perennials.

YouTube video
Editorial Director | andrew@petalrepublic.com | Full Bio

Andrew is the Editorial Director at Petal Republic. He holds a BSc degree in Plant Sciences and has trained professionally at leading floristry schools in London and Paris. In amongst overseeing a global editorial team, Andrew's a passionate content creator around all things flowers, floral design, gardening, and houseplants.

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